Synonym: fetal compromise; non-reassuring fetal heart rate trace
Fetal distress refers to the compromise of the fetus due to inadequate oxygen or nutrient supply. This can occur due to maternal, fetal or placental factors. At its most severe it may lead to neonatal brain injury or stillbirth. Its presence may be suspected due to various factors but all have a high false positive rate.
This is a companion discussion topic for the original article at https://patient.info/doctor/obstetrics/fetal-distress